I love the teaching here! Pastor Mike Chaddick is a true scholar. He knows his stuff, and can explain things in a way that helps long time Christians go to a deeper level of knowledge, doesn't leave out the new believer, and leaves you challenged to go big for God.
I recommend getting plugged into a community group. These meet in homes and discuss the Sunday sermon. Because I have a weird work schedule, my husband and I have had the pleasure of attending two different community groups at different times of the year. This uniquely allowed me to get to know two groups better and helped me create connections. There are several meeting places and times to choose from. Also, because the church isn't huge it is easy to get to know people. My husband particularly enjoys the men's bible study on Tuesday nights (meets at a home, not Ladera Ranch Elementary). Because I am a public school teacher I get to go to the women's Tuesday morning bible study (also meets in a home) during the summer.
Beyond the community groups and weekly Bible studies there are plenty of places to serve. There are some pretty dedicated folks who show up early every Sunday to transform the school multipurpose room into our gathering place. I enjoy helping the media ministry once a month. There are also opportunities to usher, or help with kids, or nursery.
If it's your first time coming be prepared to go through a few roundabouts. If you're familiar with Ladera Ranch you know what I'm talking about. There are signs posted to tell you where to go. (From a few roundabouts away you will see blue Image church lawn signs with arrows telling you which turn to take in the roundabout) Look for the driveways with the banner/flags that say "Image Church". It's pretty easy to find the sanctuary area, and there is a hospitality table with coffee and treats that people bring every week. I love when there are home baked goodies. If you get there early there is a very nice lady named Lois who mans the information table after service. She sits right inside the door and listens to worship practice.
My husbands favorite spot is second row aisle on the left, unless it's a week I get to attend, then he does sound so he can sit next to me at the media table.
I really appreciate that every week during the closing worship time there is an opportunity to take communion. I like that the Pastor reads a communion passage to open up this time, but you are free to go up, or not, at any time during the last songs.
There are also some great prayer warriors at this church. Whether I'm sharing a request in person after service, or through our private social media platform, I know that I am covered in loving, concerned, and wise prayer. read more